Can you claim bunions for VA disability?

Can you claim bunions for VA disability?

Some of the most common foot conditions veterans experience following service include pes planus (flat feet), plantar fasciitis, bunion deformity, and arthritis. Veterans may be eligible to receive VA disability compensation if they are able to demonstrate that their foot conditions are due to their time in service.

Do bunions ever go away?

The bunion won’t go away on its own; it can only worsen with age. A mild bunion may not be painful initially, but it can eventually lead to big toe joint pain and difficulty with shoe fit.

Does the VA pay for bunions?

Generally speaking, VA rates bunions according to 38 CFR § 4.71a, Schedule of Ratings – Musculoskeletal System, Diagnostic Code 5280. The rating criteria are as follows: 10% – operated with resection of metatarsal head. 10% – severe, if equivalent to amputation of great toe.

Can bunions cripple you?

Difficultly standing or walking – Bunions left untreated may literally knock you right off your feet, may alter one’s gain or balance, or increase risk of falls in elderly; Poor social and or physical functioning can lead to poorer metal health and less satisfaction in life.

What problems can bunions cause?

But, as the bunion gets larger, it can seriously affect how your foot works. You experience redness, swelling, tenderness, and pain at the base of the big toe, and it can migrate to the ball of the foot. Your bent big toe may put pressure on your other toes, causing damage such as hammertoes or corns.

Can I get VA disability for ingrown toenails?

VA has substantially complied with the notice and assistance requirements and the appellant is not prejudiced by a decision on the claim at this time. A 10 percent disability rating, and no higher, for right great toe, ingrown toenail is granted.

Can you push a bunion back in?

No. Bunions are progressive foot deformities that will only get worse with time. Orthotics and splints can change the positioning of the foot, aid foot functioning, and relieve pain, but they cannot reverse or stop a developing bunion. The only way to permanently correct a bunion is through surgery.

How much VA disability do you get for foot pain?

Under that code, foot injuries are rated at 40 percent for actual loss of use of the foot, 30 percent if injury is severe, 20 percent if moderately severe, and 10 percent if moderate. Plantar fasciitis is not the only service-connected disability of the veteran’s right lower extremity.

Do you get VA disability for each foot?

If you have unilateral pes planus (affecting one foot), you can receive a VA disability rating for foot pain of 20%. If it is bilateral (affects both feet) then your disability rating may be 30%.

Is there a military service connection for bunions?

Many people with bunions would not connect them to their time in the military, but the heavy boots and long marching times can contribute to the development of many types of conditions. This all gets worse with repetition, so you don’t have to list a single event for a service connection.

Can I get a VA disability rating for bunions?

Before you can be approved for a VA disability rating for bunions or other foot conditions, will need to have evidence of your disability such as medical tests and diagnoses, as well as evidence of your time in military service.

What causes a Bunion to form?

A bunion forms when the bone at the joint where the big toe meets the foot becomes deformed and pushed outward as a bunion develops, which may cause pain and discomfort. Over time, the problem may continue to worsen. It can start as a small lump or bump, and progress to a significant bulge that makes it difficult to wear shoes or walk without pain.

Why does the military cause so much foot pain?

Because of the extreme physical demands often placed on people by the military, there may be foot pain and problems that last far beyond leaving the service. In some cases, these issues with your feet can become worse over time, as well.